Driver believed to have left Manchester crash site sought by police

Following instructions blaring from a Manchester Police squad car, the driver of a dump truck avoids electrocution from live wires that fell on his rig when it hit a utility pole. Now, police seek the driver who apparently triggered the crash.

Jason Emme, 25, of Bayville, driving for Lakehurst Public Works, avoided injury in the Wednesday morning crash on Route 539, police said. The crash forced electricity disruptions on about 4,000 Jersey Central Power and LIght customers for several hours.

Emme told officers that a red SUV turned unsafely onto the southbound side of the highway from Cherry Street, and that he swerved to avoid a collision with it, prompting the impact with the pole.

The SUV is believed to be a red Jeep Cherokee or Liberty. Police said that the driver didn't stop after the crash. They're asking anyone familiar with the vehicle, owner or driver to call them at 732-657-6111.

At about 8:45 AM, Patrolman Rich Chevrier was headed north on Route 539, about 500 feet from the truck, and noticed sparks as it veered off the road and into the pole. Using his car's loudspeaker, he instructed Emme to stay inside until JCP&L crews cut power.

"The quick thinking of Ptl. Chevrier to use his vehicle's PA system to warn Mr. Emme to stay inside of his truck was lifesaving," Segreant Charles Brooks said in prepared comments.

"Residents are reminded to always avoid downed wires, as they could be electrified and extremely dangerous. Alert authorities and never attempt to touch, move, or drive over any wires."

It was the first of two crashes involving utility poles and live wires in Ocean County within about two hours Wednesday.

In downtown Toms River, a Beachwood driver's car hit a pole and brought down electrified cables later in the morning. She and her 11-year-old passenger escaped with minor injuries.